So you’ve fallen in love with the TAB and you’re ready to make the leap into teardrop camping! As someone who’s been part of the nuCamp community for years and helped countless future TAB owners navigate their purchase, I’ve learned that buying a TAB is about so much more than just finding the lowest price tag. Here are my top 10 tips to help you make a smart purchase and set yourself up for years of happy camping.

1. Understand Dealer Pricing Strategies

Not all dealers approach pricing the same way. Some list their TABs high with the expectation that you’ll negotiate, while others price competitively from the start with little room for movement. Neither approach is inherently better, but knowing which strategy your dealer uses helps you set realistic expectations and avoid frustration during negotiations. Don’t be afraid to ask!

2. Time Can Be Your Friend

The longer a trailer has been sitting on a dealer’s lot, the more motivated they are to move it. If you’re flexible on color, options, or specific model year, asking about inventory age can give you leverage. Just make sure any “older” new unit has been properly maintained while in storage. In particular, make sure you know when the trailer was built so you can service the Alde at the two-year mark.

3. Get Real Insurance Quotes

I see this question constantly in Facebook groups, but here’s the truth: someone else’s insurance quote means nothing for you. Your location, credit history, driving record, and coverage needs are unique. Shop around and get actual quotes from multiple insurers. Most importantly, make sure you’re insured for the full replacement cost of your TAB, not just what you paid for it.

4. Research Your Dealer Thoroughly

Before you commit, read Google reviews and ask the dealer directly about their service department. Specifically, find out if they keep open appointment slots for warranty work. nuCamp has one of the lowest Repair Event Cycle Times in the RV industry, but that won’t help you if your dealer is the bottleneck and can’t get you in for months. Post-sales support matters just as much as the purchase price.

5. Ask About the Walkthrough

What’s included in the delivery walkthrough, and how long does it last? A thorough walkthrough is invaluable for understanding all your TAB’s systems and features. Some dealers rush through this in 30 minutes, while others take several hours to ensure you’re comfortable with everything. If you’re buying from a dealer that offers a comprehensive walkthrough, that’s worth something.

6. Know What’s Included

nuCamp includes a 30-amp power cord and a welcome bag with manuals, swag, and other essentials with every TAB (though these items are always subject to change). Ask your dealer if there are any additional items or dealer-installed options included in your purchase. Don’t assume—ask specifically about what you’re getting.

7. Consider the Extended Warranty Carefully

If you’re thinking about an extended warranty, I’d recommend getting nuCamp’s own warranty rather than a third-party option. The nuCamp warranty is designed specifically for their products and tends to have fewer coverage disputes down the road.

8. Out-of-State Purchases Require Extra Homework

Buying out of state can sometimes get you a better deal or access to specific models, but make sure you understand your state’s registration requirements. Can the dealer help with any paperwork? What will you need to handle yourself? Factor in any trips back to the dealer’s state if required, or understand the registration process you’ll need to manage remotely.

9. Shipping Can Be a Smart Solution

If you know exactly what you want and the perfect TAB is several states away, shipping can be worth considering. Just be aware that you’ll likely be on your own for the walkthrough. The good news is that nuCamp offers their own walkthrough sessions and new owner classes for reasonable costs, which can fill this gap nicely.

10. Think Beyond the Bottom Line

The cheapest price isn’t always the best deal. Factor in the dealer’s reputation, the quality of their walkthrough, their service department’s availability, and their overall integrity. Also, if you’re trading in your current camper, understand that you won’t get top dollar at a dealer—but the convenience of a one-stop transaction might be worth the trade-off. And here’s a reality check: all those upgrades and mods you’ve added? They might mean very little to trade-in or resale value, so factor that into your expectations.

Buying a TAB is an exciting step into a wonderful community of adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. Take your time, do your homework, and choose a dealer who will support your ownership experience from day one. Your future camping self will thank you!